Iowa’s Beach Water Monitoring Program

Routine water quality monitoring is conducted at all of the State Park beaches and many locally managed beaches in Iowa. In order to help protect the health of those wishing to recreate at the beaches, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources works with various public health and management agencies throughout the state to inform the public of the most current water quality conditions.

Outdoor recreation at beaches in Iowa is typically limited to the time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Therefore, most beach monitoring is conducted during this time frame. Results for specific beaches are published as soon as they become available.

Standard swimming advisories are issued between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year. For up to date information, call the DNR Beach Monitoring Hotline at (515) 725-3434.